Cindy Watson: Kindergarten Teacher
Cindy grew up in South Florida and attended Stetson University in DeLand where she graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Elementary Education. Cindy returned to the South Florida area and taught kindergarten for 11 years before marrying her husband David.
A job transfer brought them to the Mahomet area where they fell in love with the small town feel. Cindy spent the next several years staying home to raise their three daughters, Riley, Janey and Aubrey. When Aubrey was ready to begin school Cindy began subbing and was then hired as a support services aide at Middletown Prairie. In her free time, Cindy enjoys spending time with her family and friends, staying active, and playing with their two Golden Retrievers Henry and Bailey.
Cindy is excited to return to her very own kindergarten classroom, to meet all of her new students and families, and to work again with the amazing faculty and staff at Middletown Prairie.
Bess Lanker: High School Art Teacher
Bess Lanker grew up in Monticello, IL. She graduated from Illinois State University in 2011 with a BS in Art Education and is certified to teach K-12 art. Her first teaching position was at Monticello High School in Monticello, IL. She has spent the past 4 years teaching elementary and middle school art in Gibson City, IL.
Currently, Bess lives in Champaign, IL. She enjoys making art, especially 3-d and sculptural art. She also enjoys cooking, listening to podcasts, sewing and going to pub trivia. Bess is excited for the opportunity to teach Art at Mahomet-Seymour High School this fall.
Anna Nelson: First Grade Teacher
Anna Nelson grew up in Champaign, IL. She graduated from Illinois State University in 2016 with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education and a minor in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology. She spent her first year teaching kindergarten in Bloomington, IL.
Currently, Anna lives in the Bloomington-Normal area. She enjoys working out, cooking, and reading in her spare time. Anna is very excited about joining the Mahomet-Seymour School District and is eager to build relationships with her new staff and students.
